A New Pumpkin Champion

A new champion was crowned at the 30th annual Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival on October 5. Ruben Frias, of American Canyon, took home the top prize with his massive pumpkin weighing in at 1,967 pounds.

This milestone year was especially meaningful because the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off has been the heart and soul of the festival since its beginning. What started as a humble contest three decades ago has grown into Elk Grove's largest family event, drawing thousands of visitors to celebrate these incredible growers and their colossal creations.

Ruben grew the winning pumpkin in Napa, and it took 180 days of careful nurturing to reach its final size. Reflecting on their victory, Ruben's wife, Maricela Estrada, proudly shared, "I knew he was going to win when I saw it."

Ruben's first win at the Elk Grove weigh-off came the very first year he started growing giant pumpkins back in 2009, making this achievement a full-circle moment as he reclaims the title in this special anniversary year. His dedication and hard work earned him the $7,000 grand prize and a place in festival history.

"We're thrilled to celebrate amazing growers like Ruben at this year's milestone event," said Cosumnes CSD Board President Jim Luttrell. "It's a true testament to the passion and spirit of our community."

The Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival is a two-day celebration organized by the Cosumnes Community Services District. It is packed with carnival rides, games, a pumpkin patch, pumpkin carving displays, food trucks, arts and crafts, live performances, and much more. On Sunday, the excitement continues with the festival's signature Pumpkin Regatta, where giant pumpkins are hollowed out and transformed into boats to race across the pond at Elk Grove Park.

Become a friend of the festival on Facebook and Instagram. Learn more at CosumnesCSD.gov/GPF.